XX2i Optics Named Official Sunglass of the Ulman Cancer Fund’s ‘Key to Keys’ Bicycle Ride

ARTICLE BY: Turquil Lambo
13 April 2016

(Press Release)
Sports performance eyewear maker XX2i Optics has partnered with the Ulman Cancer Fund to become the official sunglass of the organization’s annual “Key to Keys” Bicycle Ride. From April 9-16, UFC Key to Keys ambassadors ride from Baltimore, MD to Key West, FL raising awareness of young adult cancer and the mission of the Ulman Cancer Fund.

The mission of the Ulman Cancer Fund (UCF) is to change lives by creating a community of support for young adults, and their loved ones, impacted by cancer. The Key to Keys ride aims to help UCF’s programs and services reach young adults across the country so they no longer feel like they have to face cancer alone.

“XX2i is honored to be supporting such a wonderful organization,” says Paul Craig, president of XX2i Optics. “When you see the number of young adults affected each year by cancer, it’s really eye opening. We want to stand behind the mission of the Ulman Cancer Fund and bring awareness to this terrible disease that affects so many people. Eye protection should be the last thing these riders worry about during their excursion, and that’s why XX2i is outfitting each UCF team member with our award-winning glasses.”

“I have always worn sunglasses made by another major brand until today,” says Patti Jackson, member of the 2016 Key to Keys Team. “I recently received a pair of XX2i sunglasses and wore them during my bike ride. They are lightweight, stay in place and don't slide, nor do they apply too much pressure to my head on the tips. I love the different frame color options.”

Using cycling as a platform, Key to Keys participants can share their individual connections to cancer and give support to others as they journey down the east coast of the United States. Along the way, the team will visit cancer centers and communities in order to connect young adults and their families with the UCF and its mission. By the end of the ride, the money raised by participants is used to support vital UCF programs and services such as a Young Adult Patient Navigator at the Water Reed National Military Medical Center’s John P. Murtha Cancer Center.

“With a significant number of active-duty service members being in the 'young adult' age range of 18-39, having a Young Adult Patient Navigator at the John P. Murtha Cancer Center just made a lot of sense,” says Meghan Fitzgibbons, LGSW, Young Adult Patient Navigator. “These patients need and deserve help navigating the medical system, just like those treated in civilian hospitals, but they also often need help navigating the military systems as well. Since the start of the young adult patient navigation program in May of 2014, more than 160 patients have been engaged and offered resources and services related to financial assistance, fertility preservation, practical and emotional support, and connections to other young adults with cancer.”

To learn more about about or donate to the Ulman Cancer Fund’s Key to Keys Bicycle Ride, visit ulmanfund.org.